Lament of Hope

I enjoyed speaking with freelance concept artist, ⁠Even Mehl Amundsen⁠, who originates from Norway. He has worked for Blizzard, Blur, Wizards of the Coasts, and several other studios. Even shared with me his thoughts on what it means to be alive, death, the beauty of concept art, as well as his relationship with his mom.

I really enjoyed speaking with Catherine last week. ⁠Catherine⁠ has worked in the acting industry for over thirty years. She shared with me the postive influences her parents had upon her childhood and on her acting, as well as her own thoughts on raising children in environments that foster confidence and not fear. Catherine also told me about a time she used her love of Shakespeare to express herself during a challenging season.

Reconciling pain with the goodness of God is the hardest aspect of the Christian life for me. I find it difficult to trust God's goodness when my circumstances cause me emotional or physical pain.

I really enjoyed getting to speak with William Wall this past week. William talked to me about his parents, his journey with Still's disease, and how he became an atheist. I was also able to hear from him about his newest novel, Empty Bed Blues, which tells the story of an Irish widow who seeks to recreate her life in Italy.

It was a pleasure getting to speak with author and actress, Karen Grassle. Karen was my childhood "Ma" in many ways through her character of Caroline Ingalls in Little House on the Prairie. I admired the character's inner strength and resilience amidst hardship and change.

Karen Grassle seems to share a similar resilience to the character she portrayed as she discussed with me how she walks through hardships. Karen also shared with me the difficulties she experienced as a child, as well as her desire to use her time well as an advocate for climate awareness.

I am very glad that I was able to speak with singer and songwriter, Audrey Assad, about her experience with faith, trauma, and womanhood. Audrey shared with me how she experienced Christianity growing up, as well as what her thoughts on God are now. You will find Audrey's conversation with me vulnerable, honest, and personable.

Thank you, Audrey, for taking the time to talk with me!

I know Bonnie's acting work best through the character of Mrs. Edwards on "Little House on the Prairie." Bonnie is 94 now, and yet she is continuing to act. She even published a memoir this year entitled "Middle of the Rainbow."

Bonnie talked with me about her difficult relationship with her parents, her 70+ marriage, her thoughts on love and life, and her work ethic.

If interested in an autographed copy of "Middle of the Rainbow," check out her website.

I really enjoyed talking with Isaac Horn. He spoke with me about the concept of rest, the importance of community, how he would change the world if he could, and experiencing hardships. Isaac is genuine and super personable. Thank you, The Arcadian Wild's Isaac Horn, for taking the time to talk with me!

Conversing with Emma is a delight to my soul. I always walk away from our conversations feeling refreshed and inspired. Emma talked with me about the different waves of feminism throughout history, as well as the challenges she faces as a women in our modern culture. Emma shared with me what it means to be a woman, and how glorious femininity is as defined by Scripture.